Asda plans
2,500 new
jobs with
£700m plan
for growth

The Leeds-based retailer, the UK’s second biggest behind Tesco, plans to open five new superstores and two Asda Livings, showing its commitment to large retail outlets at a time when some rivals are scaling back their store plans.

Last week Tesco said it was ditching plans to open more than 100 major new stores after announcing its first fall in profits in 20 years.

In addition to Asda’s commitment to new store openings, it will also invest part of the £700m on its fast-growing online operations.

Asda is keen for its stores to support its internet, tablet and smartphone channels, making it easier for customers to shop in the way that is most convenient to them.

Asda chief executive Andy Clarke said it is vital that the group provides customers with what they want.

“By focusing on their needs through accelerating our investment in the technology and infrastructure to make shopping more convenient, customers can shop for what they want, when they want it,” he said.

The £700m investment, which will go into online, new and existing stores, was higher than the £500m announced last year.

The decision to open 12 new stores this year, down from 25 last year, reflects the trend towards web expansion.

The latest figures from Kantar Worldpanel show that Asda’s sales rose 3.0 per cent in the 12 weeks to April 14.

Its market share stands at 17.5 per cent, down slightly from 17.6 per cent in the same period last year as discounters Aldi and Lidl take market share.

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